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Many people have heard of Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, but don’t understand the actual process of how to apply for these benefits or that they may be eligible. Funded by payroll taxes, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal government insurance program. SSDI benefits are paid to workers who cannot work due to a debilitating illness or disability.

Social Security Disability Applications

The easiest way to begin your Social Security disability application is by consulting a professional claims services company by phone or through its Web site. Some leading companies even offer a convenient, free evaluation, which is a cost effective step that will first determine your eligibility. Filling out a Social Security disability application and Activities of Daily Living questionnaire are the first steps in the application process. By working with a professional company with vast experience, you can ensure proper completion of your forms. You also will considerably increase the likelihood of an approval for benefits when using services offered by professional representatives.

After completing your Social Security disability application, the next step taken is determining if a legitimate disability exists and the extent the disability interferes with your employment. Many variables and details in this analysis for benefits are considered, which is why many people choose to consult professional representatives during the application process. To qualify for benefits, your disability must either meet or exceed the medical listings set forth by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

The Stages Of Denial And Appeal

The SSA denies the majority of first-time applications received. The second stage of applying for SSDI benefits involves asking for reconsideration through the appeal process, depending on the state where you live. An SSDI representative will compile vocational and medical records before preparing the necessary documents for appeal.

If your appeal is denied, you can request a hearing. If you use the services of a professional company, they also will analyze your case and file for your hearing. Since these experts know the “ins and outs” of these hearings, you are more likely to win your claim for SSDI benefits with their representation than by representing yourself at the hearing. When a case is denied at the hearing, a professional application representative may submit a request for appeal to the Appeals Council for a review of the decision.

Hiring A Professional Social Security Disability Expert

Unfortunately, many of the people who qualify to receive benefits never even fill out a disability application because of the confusing and overwhelming process. Others who qualify for these benefits forego hiring a professional SSDI representative because they think their assistance will cost them money they may not have or that their representative will receive the majority of their benefits. These misunderstandings keep countless people with disabilities from receiving the SSDI benefits they deserve.

A reputable company normally charges a one-time fee that is 25 percent of the retroactive amount awarded from the SSA, up to a maximum fee set by the SSA. The fee is below the maximum amount when the applicant doesn’t receive a retroactive reward. The most important thing to remember is that future monthly payments go straight to the beneficiary, not to the company assisting in the benefits process. This makes it clear that consulting an SSDI expert for help is worth the minimal fee and can increase the likelihood of receiving SSDI benefits. Many representatives also work on contingency and do not require any fees until you have been awarded your benefits.

Requirements For Benefits

To qualify for benefits, you must have been gainfully employed for five out of the last 10 years, but unable to work due to an illness or disability. In addition, you must have become ill or disabled before reaching your full retirement age (65 to 67). Before you can collect SSDI benefits, you must meet specific definitions of disability. This is why many people consult a professional during the Social Security disability application process. A professional also can ensure Social Security awards you everything you are entitled to receive.

SSDI benefits include eventual Medicare coverage including medical, prescription drug and hospital coverage; regular monthly income, and a possible 11-month extension of your COBRA benefits. Professional SSDI companies also can help protect your LTD (long-term disability) retirement and dependent benefits. As mentioned, the application process is not simple and can be quite confusing. However, by working with a knowledgeable representative, you can eliminate the confusion and stress of applying for disability benefits.

Jim Allsup writes for Allsup, an SSDI benefits representative. They offer a free, no-obligation Social Security Disability application evaluation.

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